Kenworth recently annnounced it is expanding availability of its PACCAR TX-12 PRO automated transmission, bringing it to several models within the company’s medium duty line. Ranging from Class 7 to light Class 8, the vocational transmission is available on the Kenworth T380 and T480, when matched with the PACCAR PX-9 engine.

The PACCAR PX-9, with what the company said is one of the highest power-to-weight ratios in the industry, can be spec’d with peak horsepower ranging between 260- and 380 for on-highway and vocational use; up to 450 hp with 1,250 lb.-ft. of torque for fire service vehicles. 

The PACCAR TX-12 PRO was designed for rugged service and low-end drive performance applications like dump truck, snowplow, or in chassis-mounted tanker configuration, Kenworth said in a statement. Additionally, the TX-12 PRO features an extreme duty clutch for low-speed maneuvering, and rock free mode to help trucks get unstuck in mud or sand. Plus, it has an off-highway calibration tuned for changing soil conditions. The 12-speed gear set provides wide ratio coverage, allowing for excellent maneuverability without sacrificing fuel economy at highway speeds, Kenworth said.

For those applications requiring a PTO, The TX-12 PRO is available with dual openings – a bottom mount 8-bolt and 4-bolt rear mount for a combined 95 hp capacity.

To monitor performance and to ensure long-life, the transmission and clutch are both equipped with internal oil temperature sensors. Their temperatures can be displayed on the in-cab 7-inch digital display and can provide driver notifications in situations causing excessive temperatures.

Oil maintenance intervals for the TX-12 PRO are 250,000 miles, and the clutch is maintenance-free.